Chapter 2: The Sorting Ceremony:

It was now half-past eight, and the sun had left the sky a long time ago. The enchanted ceiling at Hogwarts was gloomy and the moonlight illuminated the candlelit areas with a warm, welcoming and mysterious aura.

Current students had disembarked at the Hogsmeade Station and many of them would arrive via carriages, into the school compound. The first years however were different – as new students, they would arrive via boats. This was a yearly tradition, and only when students were leaving Hogwarts, would they be transported away from the castle via the same method. Many who were new to the wizarding world, merely found a boat and sat down. Those who knew each other preferred to travel in groups. The boat ride also provided the students with a rather picturesque view of Hogwarts during the nighttime. The flaming torches and the full moon only added to the allure and the atmosphere. Even purebloods who knew about Hogwarts, still found the vista charming and beautiful.

Daphne Greengrass however, was already looking around at her classmates. She was curious as to who she would be spending the next seven years with, at her school. Sadly, her plans for only her and Tracey to share a boat were now through the window, as Pansy Parkinson the pug, had decided to 'grace' or rather annoy the pair with her presence.

"Ms Greengrass."

"Ms Parkinson."

Daphne noted that according to Pansy, Tracey was not worth even a polite hello. Tracey was aware that her half-blood presence counted for being scum, and she had even suggested that Daphne avoid her at school, during a previous conversation many months ago.


"I am from a neutral family. Also, scum just like you, although they won't say it to my face. So don't worry, we are perfect for each other. Only because of father's financial power, they don't screw around. We are the oldest pureblood house after all, right behind the Blacks. And we have more money than Malfoy from our potions business, as of recently. And so do you. It will be fine." Daphne laughed.


As the boats slowly glided over the inky black water, a huge object seemed to be moving under the surface. That was when Daphne realised that trouble makers had arrived at the school. As she observed three students in another boat, they were already plotting something.

"Neville, is that the giant squid?" asked a red-headed boy.

"One way to find out, I suppose. Lumos!"

Daphne guessed that this was Neville Longbottom. It did not go unnoticed that his Lumos was ridiculously bright. Suddenly the entire three occupants of the boat were gleaming as the light danced off their uniforms. Others who had never cast a spell before were looking on. Daphne already understood the significance. These three people were friends, and they were all flexing acromantula uniforms? A hilarious suggestion came from the red-headed boy.

"Nev, how about we introduce the squid to Snickers?" Ronald giggled.

Tracey's head suddenly perked up as she asked, "Wait, they have Snickers? But isn't Neville a pureblood? Neville Longbottom?"

A wrapper suddenly crinkled and Neville was now poking a floating tentacle with the chocolate bar.

"Wait, are they feeding a giant squid?" asked Tracey.

Strangely the squid seemed to sense that the individuals wanted to share a snack with him, and he grasped the tiny chocolate bar gently with his barely emerged, tree-sized tentacle. The water was a little turbulent a short while after and the squid was eating the thing. Hagrid the groundskeeper at Hogwarts, was now curious, as the squid never really interacted with anyone. Now everyone was watching the spectacle as a massive eye rose from the water and he slowly blinked at the three wizards in the boat. The blonde-haired witch merely reached out with her hand and pat the squid, and after whispering something to the two other boys. Then they also gave the massive creature two pats. The squid slowly descended into the water and Neville extinguished his wand.

"Pizza party with the squid, Neville?" asked the red-headed boy.

"Ronald Weasley, you are a genius!" replied Neville."

Daphne found this shocking. Was this boy from the infamously poor Weasley family? His robes were easily better than hers. He looked all brand new and sharp. So did the other two persons on his boat. Even Pansy found the open display of wealth uncomfortable as adults did not wear acromantula so openly. The conversation continued:

"He is pretty happy with the snack. We need to get something bigger. Fifty subway sandwiches with double meat and double cheese might do the job?" Ronald asked.

"Probably. Think he is partial to pickles?" Neville wondered.

Unknown to the rest of the students, Luna had instructed Ronald and Neville to push magic through their fingers, as they touched the squid. The idea was not to conjure a spell, but rather to introduce themselves to the squid. Luna had tried to convey a message with her intent and the squid had sent a dim acknowledgement. Neville who was aware of the weapons that Harry possessed, considered that the squid could be armed with cannons to cause utter mayhem. He decided to text Harry the idea later so that he could jump on the opportunity. The other Purebloods were now totally confused, but Daphne had tried Subway - Tracey had purchased food from many places, and often brought it to Greengrass manor.

"They are so cool, and they already know magic. They eat subway too. They are very classy!" Tracey whispered as Daphne had to admit that the group had already caused quite a spectacle.

"It matters not. Longbottom, a Pureblood associating with a Weasley? And I know that hair anyway. That rag, the Quibbler! That is probably the mudblood sympathizer's daughter" Pansy Parkinson replied.

"Jealous much? Neville seems to know more magic than the rest of us. That Lumos was impressive. Talent is talent, regardless of blood." Daphne countered.

"Ha! We will see if that is the case. Careful Ms Greengrass, you might lose your half-blood friend eventually. We already lost a half-blood mutt recently, I heard. I wonder if there was any talent present? I think Purebloods are still more powerful at the end of the day. We own the magical world."

"People often forget that we are the oldest Purebloodhose after the Blacks. We have seen power come and go. One day you might find that you are not powerful. Time is a harsh mistress. That is why we keep polite relationships with everyone.

Political alliances that encourage cooperation with everyone, do better in the long term…"

"We will see Ms Greengrass, we will see. To think I have to share a house with you and the half-blood. Proper deportment counts for nothing these days eh?" Pansy laughed sarcastically.


Soon enough, the boats approached the boathouse. From here, the students disembarked and walked a small distance uphill. Standing at the entrance was none other than the four Head of Houses for Hogwarts. The lioness, Minerva McGonagall looked over the students imperiously. Professor Flitwick and Professor Sprout were engaged in idle chit chat. Severus Snape, incensed by the earlier conversation was now in a foul mood, and looked like a giant brooding bat. As the children approached, it did not go unnoticed that Hagrid was whispering something in Professor McGonagall's ear. Her eyebrows were suddenly open wide arches, as she realised that the squid had openly interacted with three students.

"This is Professor McGonagall. She will take you from here." Hagrid announced.

The other students looked on at the trio who had caused a commotion, as it was rumoured that the squid was dangerous. Minerva had a bad feeling about these three students. They seemed to remind her of James Potter, Sirius Black and Remus Lupin. The school term had not started and they had managed to pet and feed the creature in the lake? And since when Acromantula school robes were a thing? It certainly did not break any rules, and they all looked sharp. She began to wonder if this was possibly the new generation of Marauders. Her face became sad, as she realised that Harry Potter should have been here. He had only been a couple of months too late. She tersely commanded:

"Welcome to Hogwarts new students. I am Professor McGonagall, the Transfiguration Mistress. Students, follow me."

The students walked until they arrived at the Reception hall. After waiting for some time, Professor McGonagall led the entire group of students to the Great Hall, which was flanked by massive eighteen feet brass decorated doors. It was closed, but the other students who were behind the door could be heard. Suddenly a muted grandfatherly voice silenced the crowd. Professor McGonagall turned around and began her signature introduction:

"Welcome again to Hogwarts. You are about to be sorted into your houses. The houses are Gryffindor, Hufflepuff, Ravenclaw and Slytherin. The Sorting ceremony will separate you according to your talents.

While you are at Hogwarts, your triumphs will earn your house points, while any rule-breaking will lose house points. At the end of the year, the house with the most points is awarded the House Cup, a great honour.

Please smarten yourself up, as I will be back soon. You will want to look your best, as it is truly a momentous occasion."

As Professor McGonagall walked off, everyone began to press their wrinkles and fix their hair. Neville, Luna and Ronald on merely whispered an inaudible "Ornare!" and flicked their wands. The other students were surprised when Neville, Luna and Ronald were perfectly groomed. As their robes had been commissioned with anti-stain and anti-crease charms, and they were immaculate.

This had caught the attention of Draco Malfoy, with his signature brushed back blond-whitish hair. He had already established that Neville Longbottom was another pureblood like himself, and he seemed powerful. He had been notably absent at many of the local galas for the last couple of months, and he had changed a lot. The silver-haired boy felt mildly threatened at how tall and strong Neville seemed. He walked over, flanked by Crabbe and Goyle who had taken up positions that seemed reminiscent of bodyguards.

"Well, it is good to see that some people honour the old ways. I believe it is Mr Neville Longbottom. This is Crabbe and Goyle. And I am Malfoy. Draco….Malfoy. Some Wizarding Families are better than others. I would appreciate introductions, as you seem to be in good company. At least, you didn't make friends with the wrong sort."

Malfoy then stretched out his hand, as he offered a handshake.


Professor McGonagall was walking back to the group of first-year students. She heard the conversation, as the corridor was somewhat silent. While she was not in direct view of the exchange, she guessed that a handshake was being offered. Standard pureblood greeting tactics. She was curious as to how events would play out.

"I am in good company Draco. We have….." Neville replied as he grasped Draco's hand and squeezed with considerable force until Draco's face contorted. Neville had been practising gripping exercises and pullups, and he was far stronger than the rest of the students. He even walked into Draco and towered over him, before nodding his head towards Ronald. He on cue completed the sentence.

"Bloodtraitor supreme! Ronald Billius Weasley" he replied before he bowed extravagantly.

Draco began to gasp, as he realised that blood traitor Weasley had acromantula robes. How could the Weasleys be rich? He even seemed to be good at magic? No, they were supposed to be poor! Neville continued:

"and?"

"Looneybin Luna Lovegood, writer for the Quibbler" Luna replied dreamily.

"And finally, the nephew of Bellatrix Lestrange, Draco Malfoy. Nephew of the woman who tortured both my parents into insanity."

There were sudden gasps as everyone was suddenly reminded of the horrors of the last Wizarding war. The muggleborn students who were clueless began to wonder if there was some long standing feud.

"How can I be friends with you, when I plan to lop Bellatrix's head off? We are heading for a showdown eventually. If I ever need a friend like you, I can just watch what comes out of my ass in the toilet cubicle."

Suddenly there was muted sniggering from the muggleborn students, and the Slytherins were surprised at the ferocity of Neville Longbottom. He had openly claimed that he was going to kill Bellatrix Lestrange – a senior lieutenant of the Dark Lord? Minerva was now about to turn the corner in one minute. If there was one thing that she was sure of, it was that Augusta had raised a fearless grandson. She continued to listen to Xeno's daughter and Authur's son, as the altercation continued. Ronald Weasley seemed to wear his family insults like armour. Xeno's daughter had always been a lone soul, but the odd girl had friends now?

Something was suspicious.


The altercation continued:

"Neville, maybe you won't have to get revenge for House Longbottom. The Storm-Bringers might kill the whole lot of them. If he can reproduce, I would be surprised. That was a nasty kick last Yuletide." Luna replied.

"Let off on the handshake, before he dies. He will be back to antagonise us. What a disagreeable fellow," Ronald replied, after reading Neville's insult kit from earlier.

Neville let Malfoy's hand go, and he was now in pain. Pansy looked scandalised and Daphne appreciated the brazen show of power. It almost seemed that perhaps the families were in an alliance? Augusta was hitting hard, lately. Daphne decided that she would secretly investigate. Draco unhappy with being cowed attempted to taunt Neville where it would embarrass him:

"Potter's parents hang out with the wrong sort. They died. That is why he died earlier this year. Your parents are already halfway there. Careful Longbottom!"

Neville smiled and this shocked a lot of the Slytherins. Little did they know that Harry's sass and Hermione's classic quips had begun to rub off on all the children. Neville explained with a lot of sarcasm and disdain colouring his voice:

"You Death Eater children, celebrate a man who proudly murdered multiple children. And you think such a man could build any kind of functioning society? You motherfuckers are so criminally dumb, that breathing must be an intellectually challenging task!"

Minerva had to stop and shake her head at the profanities. But then, she realised that the argument was rather complex and very logical. It was even insightful - Neville Longbottom was saying that the Dark Lord could never deliver on his promises. She also liked his insult…... Neville seemed to have quite a tongue on him.

"I got a letter from my owl in Hogsmeade. Something so interesting happened in Diagon Alley, that my grandmother had to owl me before I even stepped into the castle. Watch out for the headlines tomorrow, and then let me you if you feel so confident.

Harry Potter is not dead. He lives on in our hearts for now.

My godbrother's sacrifice and the sacrifice of his parents will be honoured. Careful that you anger the peons because when they are all pointing pitchforks at you, no amount of magic can save you. That is how Wizards lost all the battles in the Middle Ages to the Mundanes. What do you think will happen when all of us rally behind Harry Potter's name?

Malfoy, get fucked. Or don't. Might be better that way, I will enjoy bringing the pain. Keep up with your stupidity, and we will cull the lot of you."


So, the boy knew about the killing that had happened earlier. She found it appropriate that Death Eaters had been killed, especially those who would celebrate Harry Potter's death. At this point, she had claimed Neville Longbottom as one of her lions. While she did not approve of coarse language, she was still in pain - the boy she had held in her arms that night at the Dursley residence was now dead. No, let Harry Potter's Godbrother curse. The lioness felt that the statement was rather appropriate.

She found his arguments interesting - did he read history in his spare time? She considered that numbers truly did win battles. If he sorted into Gryffindor, she was giving him ten points silently, later tonight. Harry who was watching on with the B.F.G laughed as he realised that Neville had taken up some of Lorna's sly methods. He could always say that he openly told people that Harry was alive and that nobody had listened. He had even told them what would eventually happen.

Harry Potter is not dead. He lives on in our hearts for now. Keep up with your stupidity, and we will cull the lot of you.

What an indirect way to tease everyone. Hermione giggled as they realised that she and Harry were Hogwarts students, indirectly. Soon they would roam the castle to carry out their investigations. The Slytherins suddenly felt threatened, as they realised that not a single word of Neville's statement was false. Was vengeance coming to them? Would the mudbloods and their allies use their numbers to take everything over? Suddenly there were whispers and many began to feel apprehensive. It seemed that Potter's death did not strike fear into individuals.

He had become a Martyr.

This was way worse. This development would change the dynamics completely. Little did they know that worse things were waiting for some of them in their common room.


The entire group of first years walked into the Great Hall. At the head table, sat Professor Dumbledore with his signature grey robe and eye twinkle. Neville and Luna were somewhat apprehensive about what would happen next. The Sorting Hat was an object that was hidden by an enchantment – you could discuss it and talk about it, but as soon as you got your Hogwarts letter, it erased all knowledge of how the sorting process worked. Then, you would experience the process in the Great Hall, for the first time when you arrived. However, Neville and Luna had received their letters while already wearing Morgana's bracelets. Unlike the rest, Neville and Luna knew about the process. Ronald was surprised, but he composed himself quickly, as Neville explained how the enchantment worked.

Hermione's research had indicated that the Sorting Hat only spoke to people privately within the confines of their minds. With Neville and Luna wearing Anti-Legillimens jewellery that she had provided, the question was if the Sorting Hat would see through the charmed wristband? Would the Sorting Hat report to Dumbledore? This possibility had been discussed by Harry and Hermione and they had reasoned the following:

If Lord Voldemort was truly a previous Hogwarts student according to Lilly's suspicion, and the Sorting Hat was an informant, why was Albus Dumbledore unaware of his identity? The old man had mentioned this many times to himself, within his office. While Lord Voldemort was elusive, surely with the right names and some logical elimination, the Sorting Hat could have helped to narrow down the possibilities.

No, the Sorting Hat had been sworn to secrecy, according to an old Hogwarts legend. While Neville considered these arguments within the Great Hall, the Sorting Hat continued with its song:

'Oh, you may not think I'm pretty,

But don't judge on what you see,

I'll eat myself if you can find,

A smarter hat than me.'

Neville was not too concerned about the song. He was concerned about Harry's secrets. In any case, he was the first of the three. If anything, unusual happened Luna and Ronald would be the first to know. Dumbledore was not aware that his office and multiple rooms in the castle were 'bugged'. Any conversation that mentioned knowledge of Harry Potter's existence would be immediately identified. Other students were already being sorted, and Professor McGonagall proceeded with the names:

"Hannah Abbott"

"Hufflepuff"

"Susan Bones"

"Hufflepuff"

As Neville looked around, the students were now observing the Ghosts. For the muggleborns who had not seen any of the spectral entities, their sight was truly an appearance to behold. Neville saw "Nearly Headless Nick", the Gryffindor ghost floating around at the Gryffindor Table. The Fat Friar and the Bloody Baron were also around and looking on at the sorting. The Grey Lady never appeared in the Great Hall, and Neville was dimly aware that there were at least one hundred ghosts that resided at the castle. He closely observed the Slytherins as he understood that they were possibly future enemies. Not all of them, but some of them - he would judge them individually and make decisions as necessary.

Vincent Crabbe,

"Slytherin"

Tracey Davis

"Slytherin"

Gregory Goyle,

"Slytherin"

Daphne Greengrass

"Slytherin"

"Neville Longbottom"

Neville took a long slow steady breath, walked calmly up to the stool and sat down as Professor McGonagall lowered the hat. Neville decided to resist and he deliberately closed his occlumentic barriers. The Sorting Hat then spoke, after getting a grasp of all the hidden secrets he carried.


"My my, you are interesting Neville Longbottom. Good effort with keeping me out. The trinket you carry will serve you well. I can see you keep the company of truly accomplished Wizards and Witches. Who could imagine Harry Potter alive and well? And he is watching silently with his drone? What a novel concept. Not to worry, I will not tell anyone your secrets. You are entitled to your privacy. Hermione Granger is correct – I must respect the privacy of all equally. However, you can choose to speak to your friends about what we discuss. Nor will I discuss another student's private information."

Neville was aware that he could speak back within the confines of his mind. He decided to forego whispering vocally. He focused his occlumentic awareness:

"Thanks. Harry is my Godbrother and I trust him to do what is right. I know enough about myself to know that I am brave and I will stand by his side. I plan to behead Bellatrix and I will be as deadly as Godric himself, with Harry's new energy sword. I will be the fastest swordsman in magical England. And anybody who threatens me or my friends? I am taking a page from Harry's book.

No hesitation, no mercy."

"Well said. Godric would be proud! Gryffindor for you! I have decided that Albus Dumbledore is spineless and the founders would be unhappy about how he handled the last war. Do people often forget I was Godric's hat? I saw him demolish droves of men. As the mundane students would say….Godric would have fucked up Voldemort's shit!

And you better believe Harry Potter is right – Salazar Slytherin was not a pureblood purist. He liked resourcefulness. Why he would have fought to obtain talented muggleborns in his house! He married a mundane woman, who did not possess an inch of magic! And he married for love! I am happy to see Percy taking on his project. You must find the evidence, and that I cannot help you with."

"Oh well, that is good to know" Neville replied.

"And yes Neville I can sense your question. The founders did use mostly wandless magic. It is not too late to develop the skill. Keep practising. I see Harry and Hermione are far ahead. Good. I am not sure about what house Harry Potter would fit into – he seems to have the qualities of all four houses. Hermione Granger is a Claw, oh Fillius would have adored her.

I can't wait to look into the rest of your gang, although I suspect that Luna is already a Ravenclaw and Ronald is a Hufflepuff from what I have seen in your memories. You may share this conversation with your two friends, but nobody else.

I want in on this 'prank'. I think Harry Potter and Hermione Granger are exactly what we need.

Oh boy, a new generation of Marauders is here, and we even have two of the old ones and some recruits. Priya Singh and Lorna Findlay working together? If they want to mess with those two, let them try. And the whole Weasley clan are soon going to be in Harry's corner?

Time for some fucking mayhem!"

Neville Longbottom was surprised that the Sorting Hat could use expletives. It continued:

"I am going to help Harry Potter screw over the whole lot of them. Dumbledork included. Although from what I understand, many of them are already dead?"

"You do not fuck with Harry and Hermione. Ever." Neville replied.

"Good. Time to get rid of the rot. Well, I might as well play along," the Sorting Hat replied.


The Sorting Hat had been silent for an entire three minutes. People began to whisper before the Sorting Hat then screamed in the entire hall:

"BY GODRIC'S SWORD…GRRRRYYYYYYFFFFFFFIIINNNDDDOOOOOOOORRRR!"

Minerva McGonagall smiled as she realised that Neville had to be truly a Lion, for the Sorting Hat to personally express amazement at a specific student. Suddenly there was a lot of clapping as Neville was the man of the moment. Albus Dumbledore had been played for a fool by the Hogwarts Sorting Hat, as he nodded in Neville's direction. The boy replied with a raised goblet and it did not go unnoticed by the other teachers. The commotion died down and others followed.

Albus had already decided on his replacement for Harry Potter. He wondered about the clothes that the three friends were wearing. Acromantula robes? It seemed that they had stepped into wealth? Perhaps this would provide them with facilities? Albus decided that getting the Philosopher's stone out into the open was much more important. Later, he would investigate particularly how the students had come into financial independence. While it was an odd occurrence, it was welcome.

Neville had nodded to Luna as Professor McGonagall called her name. She looked back and Neville gave her a thumbs up. She nodded and proceeded to sit on the stool as the Sorting Hat peeked into her brain.


"Well my dear, I already know the long term plans. You are blessed with a beautiful gift. Knowledge is not merely the appreciation of cold hard facts but the appreciation of art and even nature. I have seen a gift like this – the ability to see this entire world of life. It was common in the old days. Some of the Hogwarts students had this gift in the 12th and 13th centuries. You must document it! This knowledge must surface eventually! Take the internship. Demand that Albus let you off on Saturday to paint at Madam Delacour's studio. Even offer to restore some of our old portraits too!"

"Thank you. Yes, I will do that. Hermione is helping me. She traced a couple of my creatures to prehistoric insects. She even believes that the meteor that wiped out the dinosaurs sixty five million years probably let off large amounts of magic! Somehow they vaporised the physical form of the animals." Luna replied.

"Please do text her, I believe. Oh, muggle communication devices within the school walls? Harry Potter is a genius if he has found a way to shield muggle technology! I want to see what happens! Very Fascinating!

I have decided I want in, on your prank.

Work with Neville and Ronald. Time to take the rot out. No Death Eaters will threaten Hogwarts and her students again."

"BY ROWENA'S DIADEM….RAVEEEENNNNNNCCCLLLAAAWWWWWWWWW!"


The Ravenclaws were clapping and hooting as they realised that Luna Lovegood had to be extremely talented. Albus realised that the fates were aligning and Lady Magic was providing Neville Longbottom with dependable and talented friends. No – he would not be alone on his mission to take on the Dark Lord. The names continued:

"Draco Malfoy"

"Slytherin" the hat replied bored and unenthusiastic before the hat ever touched his head. With the open proclamations being made for Gryffindor and Ravenclaw, now the remaining houses were wondering what would happen now.

"Padma Patil"

"Ravenclaw"

"Parvati Patil"

"Gryffindor"

Finally, the second to last person sat on the stool. Ronald Weasley did not concern himself with the drama that his friends experienced. He was here to work hard because he needed to win someone's heart. As he slipped on the Sorting Hat, it spoke to him gently after seeing the boy's emotions.


"Today is truly a day of surprises. You are different from your friends. You want to earn that which is yours. I see that Hadrian's speech touched you. You could not sleep after imagining your family being killed. You cried in your bed. So much loyalty to them."

"Yes," Ronald whispered, as Minerva McGonagall heard the comment.

"You believe that you are not talented like the rest, because you are lacking. Not true! You are learning faster than all of them. You are playing catch up. So many powerful changes in such a short space of time. Many plans are unfolding. Trust those people who are looking after you, and your family. Trust your friends. Trust Hadrian and Jean."

"I will. Loyalty to my family and my friends. I will carry them through when they are not sure of themselves. I will look after all of them." Ronald replied.

Ronald had not been introduced to occlumency, and he could only manage verbal replies. Professor McGonagall heard the whispers and found them to be very endearing. The Sorting Hat continued:

"You already know yourself well enough. You are a badger. Helga would love the sight of you, my boy. And the paintings are wrong. Helga was a redhead. You are in the right place. They do have the monopoly on that. I am aware that your family have traditionally been Gryffindors but you are what you are.

As for being in love with Jean Von Neumann, all I can say is that she is indeed beautiful and accomplished. It will truly be a labour of love and hard work to win her. What you have heard of her is merely the tip of her accomplishments. I almost want to cry at how pure your love is – both for your family and this particular witch.

You have a heart as big as Helga Hufflepuff herself. It is childish love, but it is beautiful and perfect. It is full of mystery, and that is the respect that one should have for Gammarye, or Magic.

No, I want to see how this will turn out."


"BY…..HELGA'S…."

The Hufflepuffs were shocked. A "Weasley" Hufflepuff? The muttering began to increase quickly and the screaming began…

"CUP…HUUUUUUFFFFFLLLLLLLEEEEEEEPPPPPPUUUUUFFFFFFFF!"

Now the Hufflepuffs who never got any attention were screaming at full volume. Somehow, Ronald Weasley was a hard worker? As Ronald walked over to his table, many were happy to shake his hand and pat him on the back. Hufflepuff had gotten a chance to experience some glory. The "duffer house' was now important, at least for the moment. Fred and George were shouting under the noise "That is our brother. The hardest working of us all. Percy is in trouble now!"

Percy realised that Harry Potter had brought out the best in his youngest brother. He decided to shake his brother's hand openly in front of his housemates, as soon as they marched towards the dormitories. His brother needed to be commended, for his recent development. Now all eyes were on the final student:

"Blaise Zabini"

Now the Slytherin table was hoping that they would get their moment of glory. Before the hat even landed on his head:

"Slytherin" the hat replied bored and enthusiastic tone, again.

Slytherin House was at an all-time low now. Severus Snape already had it coming for the three students who had upset everything. These students had shamed House Slytherin and now, he had to deal with the deaths of parents, additionally. He had already planned to put the three celebrities under heavy questioning later in the week, during his potions class. However, Lorna had compiled all the questions that Snape usually asked, and the trio already possessed the answers.

Harry who had been watching on, found it strange that the Sorting Hat had made such a ruckus. And Ronald, a Hufflepuff? Although, it made a certain amount of sense. Harry decided to wait until Neville texted him, so he could find out the particulars.


Dumbledore was quite surprised at the curveball he had just experienced. Ronald Weasley, a powerful Hufflepuff? Perhaps this is what Neville needed – and if Ronald was truly talented, it mattered not. His membership in Hufflepuff could help and inspire others within his house to fight under his banner, eventually. Somehow, Lady Magic had set the situation up for the Slytherins to think twice. Perhaps they would leave the pureblood ideals behind if they came to realise that the other houses were capable of great things?

Yes, they could change!

He began his signature address:

"The very best of evenings to you!... Now…to our new students, welcome, to our old students, welcome back! Another year full of magical education awaits you. Nitwit! Blubber! Oddment! Tweak! Let the feast begin!"

As the feast proceeded, Neville spoke to Parvati who he already knew from occasional meetings, and Luna spoke to a new girl called Cho Chang. Ronald was busy speaking to Susan and Hannah.

"Is it true! Did you touch the squid in the lake?" Hannah asked. Suddenly everyone at the Hufflepuff table was looking on.

"Yes I did, but it was a joke. We decided to feed the guy a Snickers?"

"A snickers?" asked Susan.

"You sad people. While I do come from the Wizarding world, I eat muggle snacks. Many of them are pretty good. A 'snickers', is just a chocolate bar, but the wizarding world doesnt have anything like it. "

"Really? But that is impossible? Are you saying the Muggle chocolate is better?" asked Susan. Ronald reached into his pocket and handed a Snickers to Susan.

"Oh, you poor thing. Look, just eat the thing and ask no questions. Tear it at the top there."

Susan broke a piece off and handed it to Hannah.

"This…this is so good…..like….we need more!" Susan exclaimed.

"The trick is the nougat, caramel and the nuts work together to make it fantastic. I will see what I can organise if you want some. I will keep you posted." Ronald replied.

One of the boys had a curious look on his face and proceeded to speak his mind.

"So, you eat Muggle snacks. That is interesting. Why did you introduce yourself as a blood traitor? You seem to be properly sorted out?" asked Ernie McMillian.

"Remember we lost our Wizengamot seat yes? We used to be a Most Ancient and Most Noble house you know. Let us say if you asked for our side of the story, the Malfoys did manage to get the one-up on us. They are talented at deception. That is another story, for another time."

"Oh damn! Now a lot of things make sense! I had always heard the term being thrown about your family, but my parents insisted that your folks were wonderful people. And I believe my parents!" Ernie replied, thoughtfully.

"Yes my fellow badger, history can be challenging. But we are working towards reestablishing what we used to be. To resume or place, we just need four million galleons to pay the fine. Maybe two generations down the road, we might be able to fix it. Time can fly quite fast." Ronald replied.

"My father always said it would be good if the Weasleys returned to politics. Are you friends with Mr Longbottom and Ms Lovegood? Do you socialise with them outside of school?" Ernie asked.

"Been my friends for about one month. The funny bit is that we met in the Muggle world of all places." Ronald explained.

"What were they doing there? I don't mean it is bad, but I heard there isn't much in the muggle world?" Susan Bones replied. Many of the muggleborn Hufflepuffs were frowning, and Susan became uncomfortable.

"Oh Susan, why don't you speak to the muggleborn badgers? You will come to understand much of what you assume is wrong. They are far more sorted than us. Unless you can verify something with your own eyes, do not take rumours as the truth. I was looking for a summer job, and I ran into the rest of them. As for what they were doing well…."

Ronald understood that it was now time to spin the narrative, as Hadrian had instructed.

"Luna does artwork for a muggle marketing agency. She is a crack shot with a paintbrush and magic. However, she is learning photoshop too. She has a pretty nice laptop, seems to be good with graphic design."

A muggleborn perfect, Perkins Watson was so surprised he commented, "So, wait a moment she does magical painting and she uses computers too? Holy shit, she must be swimming in money!" he exclaimed.

"Exactly. Neville, we found in a London food court eating Hot Wings.

"What are hot wings?" Hannah asked.

"Hotwings are crispy fried chicken wings, doused in some kind of spicy sauce. And it is supposed to be spicy enough, where you struggle to eat it."

"Is it good?" Susan asked.

"Yes. Neville became obsessed and started to make his own wings and hot sauce. Then, he started to put the sauce on everything! He even brought some of his self-made hot sauce to Hogwarts"

Many were staring at Neville, as he doused his food in a dangerous red looking liquid, at the Gryffindor table.

"I can get us one of his spare bottles, but if you eat that, you will need to see Madam Pomfrey afterwards. For now, he sells onions and he recently started to grow super-hot chillies from his greenhouse. However, he is looking to sell his hot sauce to magical restaurants. I think his recipe is almost ready to corner the market, as there isn't any hot sauce in the magical England."

The Hufflepuffs were suddenly listening and the Purebloods with their preconceptions, found themselves mesmerised. They had not failed to notice Ronald's robes and his shoes. They wanted to know what the Weasleys were doing, as it seemed that they had stepped into wealth.

"So, what were you doing, when you met both of them?" asked Zacharias Smith, as he was curious to find out more.

"I was looking for a job. And I eventually got a summer job at a Muggle company. My job was to pack pot scrubbers. Boring, but I like hard work. I made enough pounds, and I did not have to worry about anything much for Hogwarts. Bought all my school supplies by myself, all spanking new. I worked very hard for this, and this is my money. It makes me feel good about myself."

"Good grief, working in the Muggle World? You are so brave? Are you sure you are not supposed to be in Gryffindor?" asked Hannah Abbott.

"I do have many Gryffindor qualities. Please, Gred and Forge Weasley are my brothers. But I prefer to work. Somebody must balance out all that bravery in our house you know? I think mother will be quite pleased, even though it is unusual. The Sorting Hat can't be wrong, can it?"

"It is certainly not! Cedric Diggory at your service. People have forgotten, but Master Healer Priya Singh, a Hufflepuff won the Order of Merlin First Class recently! I wonder if she will be on our wall of fame? We do get accomplishments too! Everybody thinks we are useless!"

"Everybody, including the Slytherins are important. Don't let a couple of snakes make it terrible for the others. Maybe we will have to stand between the Lions and the Snakes to make the peace accord happen eh? Who better than Helga's finest? Anyway, I am tired, the train ride was long. I can't wait to get some shuteye tonight."

Everyone else nodded, as they realised that Ronald Weasley was something else. Realistically, the trio were no different to any of the students. The Sorting Hat had merely decided to prank everyone. However, sometimes if you 'faked' something long enough, you could achieve wonders. As the dinner came to an end, Albus set the bait afloat.

"Now that we are watered and fed, an announcement before we go to our Dormitories. I must tell you that this year, the third-floor corridor on the right-hand side is out of bounds to anyone who does not wish to die a very painful death. That area is off-limits and this is final. Otherwise, we hope that you will enjoy your first class tomorrow morning."

Percy could be heard over the dull whispering conversations as he said, "First year Gryffindors. Follow me please!"

Perkins the year five Hufflepuff prefect instructed, "First year Badgers, follow that redhead prefect over there. We will eventually break off and go to our common room. The rest of you find your way back to the basement by yourself, don't loiter too late into the night."

The group followed as Perkins began to explain his role, as he pointed to the appropriate people.

"Once again hello. Perkins Watson at your service. I am a year-five prefect for Hufflepuff house. The redhead over there is Percy Weasley, the Gryffindor prefect. That is Ronald's older brother, by the way. We have Penelope Clearwater over…there, the Ravenclaw prefect and Jade Ethro, the Slytherin prefect in that corner over there.

The lower school is handled by the junior prefects. We do have prefects for the senior school, which is Year Six and Seven, but they will generally not interact with the lower school. As long as you see a prefect, Head boy or Head girl badge, your job is to comply. Our common room is on the same wing as the kitchen. It descends into the earth and we call it the basement. Your trunks are already in the dormitory. Girls' and Boys' dorms are separate and you are not allowed to freely fraternize. That is for the common room."

The group were now approaching the new Gryffindors who were waiting and Perkins guessed that Percy wanted a word with his brother.

"Oi Weasley, hope the hols were good. I suppose you want a word with one of mine?"

"I certainly do," Percy replied as he went up to his younger brother and put his hand on Ronald's shoulder, before offering a handshake.

"Congratulations. Fred and George give me a hard time. At least someone is serious after me?"

"More than you Perce, just watch," Ronald replied with many of the Hufflepuffs now smiling.

"Careful now Percy, I always say we have the best redheads, although Gryffindor has tried valiantly over the years with your family. I will keep an eye on him, alright?"

"Do that Perkins. Alright, Lions follow me. Off to the tower."

Soon enough, the badgers were in the Hufflepuff common room. The room possessed many high windows that let the moonlight in, and that combined with the hanging plants, the torches and the unique yellow bricks and furniture made the place look pleasant. Ronald was now looking at the Hufflepuff wall of fame that included many famous wizards. However, the two most recent people included Amelia Bones, head of the D.M.L.E and Priya V. Singh, who has chosen a yellow sari for her picture, as she demonstrated her revolutionary "Medi-Bracelet". For many young girls, Priya V. Singh was the new hero of Hufflepuff. The caption under her portrait described the new eclectic Hufflepuff as the first East Indian to attend Hogwarts and her achievements would change the face of medical healthcare – she had developed more than one hundred new medical spells.

Ronald began to suspect that Hadrian was involved. The Medi-Bracelet resembled many of the old parts he had seen in a couple of boxes. The general shape and lines looked very mundane. After manufacturing thousands of thrusters for the holidays, his eyes were sharp enough to distinguish the design. He wondered if this was the family that had taken Hadrian in? Did he assist in the design of the device? Yes – he had to! In any case, this was now proof that Hadrian had many talented people around him, and Ronald also wished to be talented in one way or the other. After looking on at the portrait and receiving his timetable from Perkins, Ronald took a top bunk that was in the corner of the year one dormitory and began reading the Transfiguration, Charms and Potions notes that Harry and Hermione had made, during their personal studies. Ronald realised that Hadrian and Jean had to be geniuses – suddenly the reason as to how the magic produced these phenomena, made a startling amount of sense.

Ronald continued to cover his textbooks and write down as much as he could remember. Harry had also built a band that could vibrate at a predetermined time, and Ronald was ready to get up early and push himself through the exercises. He went to sleep somewhat late, excited to cut a new path for himself tomorrow morning.

In the morning, Pomona Sprout the Head of House for Hufflepuff would address them.


Professor McGonagall had just finished addressing her lions and was on the way to her study. She found herself accosted by none other than Charlie and Percy Weasley. Charlie had a long box in his hand and it looked almost broom shaped?

"Goodnight Gentlemen. I hope the holidays were excellent. How can I help you?" she asked.

"Good night Professor. I think some mad ideas have taken hold of the Weasleys. If you think Ronald going into Hufflepuff was already surprising, wait till the both of us tell you what happened over the holidays. Your office will be necessary?" Charlie answered.

"Oh dear, this seems terribly important. Come along gentlemen, I get the feeling I am in for a surprise." Minerva replied. After a short walk, the lioness found herself in her study and she started a kettle of tea immediately. After motioning with her hand, both brothers sat down on the couch.

"I must say all of you look sharp. How did all of you come to possess acromantula uniforms?" Minerva asked.

"So, somebody was scouting for a person to test a new broom. A Nimbus executive had heard I was the best seeker in Hogwarts and he is connected to the national British Quidditch team. His name is Mr Snuffles Padfoot. Long story short, he ate mum's soup and was impressed and offered us jobs at the Nimbus factory."

Minerva laughed heartily as she heard the news. It all made sense now.

"I always told Molly that her onion soup would take her places. I will have to congratulate her. So what happened next?" Minerva asked.

"Mr Padfoot is a serial entrepreneur. He likes investing in unusual things. He offered to set us up with a kitchen. It didn't take long for mum to do really well with that?" Charlie joked.

"Oh, that is rather wonderful. Molly always wanted to run an establishment like the Leaky Cauldron! She mentioned that many times!"

"Yes Professor. The entire family assembled Stormbolts during the holidays. The parts come from some foreign place. Forty per cent of Nimbus was bought by some company. Percy, what was the name?"

"I think Peverell Industries? Yes, I think that is them. The components arrive by portkey shipment through Gringotts." Percy replied.

Minerva decided that she would share this information with Albus in the morning. She was quite happy that her lions had volunteered valuable information. She continued to listen:

"So yes, we made enough money to not only cover our own Hogwarts stuff. Mum cooks behind a partition with magic and nobody can see anything. The soup and other items are sold at the front. We launch on the 5th to do limited catering to selected folks. So mum is now employed, doing what she loves."

"Oh, I am so happy! Your family deserves every bit of that success. I am curious about the box?" Minerva asked.

"Ah – Professor, whoever designed the Stormbolt, I caught his attention. I was given the next generation of his broom to evaluate!"

Percy opened up the case and took the broom out, as Charlie was just too excited, as he infomed the lioness about their secret weapon.

"I present the Rudra – a broom named after the Hindu God of the hunt. I had to sign non-disclosure forms and take oaths for this, but I can tell you that whoever made the Stormbolt was very thorough with his evaluation. I had to evaluate this for over a month, and I discussed everything with Nimbus. This broom can do things that no other brooms can do, and it is easily the fastest in the world. And we, House Gryffindor have the only one. The inventor was pleased with my insights and sent a message that it was mine to keep." Charlie replied.

Minerva at this point realised that she had obtained at least one new clue about the Storm Lord - his company was Peverell Industries. This alone was worth its weight in gold. But to finally give Severus Snape a taste of his own medicine? No, she would not carry the broom to Albus. They were not disassembling this beauty. A sinister thought was now in her mind….

This year, the quidditch season was hers.

"This is the type of luck we need. I am not saying anything to a soul outside this room. I want that Quidditch cup on my desk. I cannot have anybody sabotaging the broom or you. I will personally escort you, make no mistake. I want to see the look on Professor Snape's face."

"Thank you, Professor. When the kitchen is up and running, we can organise for you to get something off the menu. If you ever want anything special, Neville's house-elf can deliver it to Hogwarts. Perce, are you forgetting something?" Charlie smiled.

"Oh right. I have some special tea for you. Mum sent those for you." Percy replied.

Percy then emptied his knapsack which was full of twenty big boxes of tea in all different flavours and combinations. Minerva who normally bought tea from a small place in Diagon Alley had never seen all the various flavours.

"Dear Hecate, I take it that this is tea from the Muggle world?" asked Minerva.

"Very much so professor. I like the Pomegranate one. I was quite displeased to find out that the Muggle Studies syllabus is horribly out of date. I could probably do a better job at teaching the module. We visit muggle supermarkets, as we get a lot of our ingredients from such places…."

"I noticed Ms Lovegood seemed close to your brother Ronald, and Neville Longbottom? Xeno often explained that Luna never had many friends, except for your sister Ginny."

"Yes, she is friends with both of them now. We met them in London. So she is also doing quite well for herself too. She is very artistic. Luna works for a Muggle marketing company. So yes she too made good pounds over the holidays."

"Ah, that warms my heart. Xeno must be proud! She looked lovely in her robes! Immaculate! Our female professors appreciated that. She and Daphne Greengrass were the best dressed. Is Mr Longbottom sick? I did notice some red medicine being poured on his…...food."

"Oh, not at all professor. He supplies a small set of restaurants with his hot sauce. I am warning you, do not try the stuff that comes out of that bottle he takes out of his pocket. That stuff could make a dragon cry long tears." Percy replied.

"What does the hot sauce do? Is it some type of spice?" asked Minerva.

"Worse. It is a concoction of the world's hottest chillies with garlic, heaps of cilantro, lime juice, vinegar, mustard powder, salt, fruit cocktail and preserving powder. He then strains out all the skins and seeds, before leaving them to partially ferment in yhe sun. Sometimes I wonder if the thing could pass as an honest to Hecate weapon. He eats the sauce….on everything?" Charlie replied.

"Well good to know. If I feel adventurous, I will try some. So, it isn't medicine. As for your comments about the Muggle Studies syllabus, your concerns have been noted – there was a recent discussion about the same issue with the Headmaster. Once again the darker hardliners in the Wizengamot are giving us trouble. Tomorrow Percy, I want you to be on alert, as we may have high tensions at the school. There was an incident in Dragon alley and there could be trouble."

"I will work with the other prefects?" Percy replied.

"Some type of madness has taken the Wizarding world indeed gentlemen. We believe that the Storm-Lord is the manufacturer of the Stormbolt. The broom was meant to silently insult the purebloods. I am telling you this because it seems the Storm-Lord has taken a personal interest in you, Charlie. After all, it is probably he, who asked you to evaluate the broom. We have been able to ascertain that he is truly the designer."

Charlie realised that there was a possibility that the Storm-Lord and the Rune-Priestess had shown up at his house. However, he quickly hid the expression on his face, as he decided that he could confront Percy about the issue later. But it made a certain amount of sense - no wonder they were powerful and well accomplished.

"Well, this has been entertaining. Just the tea collection made my night. We will stay tight-lipped about this. Tell nobody about your new broom. Not even your team members."

Percy and Charlie left the room as Minerva prepared herself for her nightly rest.


"Well, how did I do Perce? I think I followed Hadrian's instructions well enough. They have no reason to go digging. Although, we didn't get time to talk about the new quidditch armour, the new beater bats and the face shield?"

"I think we did well for tonight. It would have been too much information. We can ask Fred and George to stay silent and we can use the excuse that he rolled out additional items. If we keep the professors happy with occasional luxury items and fast food, they will look the other way.

I know things that you don't, but trust me – you will want to support Hadrian and Jean. I know the whole story, Charlie."

Charlie considered this to be an indication that his hunch was correct. He continued, "Hey – why wouldn't I? Got the best broom. I even noticed the Slytherin chicks were eyeing me up. That was weird. I suppose the nice robes help. So, Penelope Clearwater eh? She looked like she was going to eat you alive, with the new dapper look Perce. Careful she corners you in a rather intimate manner."

Percy was now red as a tomato.

"Noted Charlie, don't tell the rest of them. I do feel more confident in my robes, actually. I do feel like a new wizard…."

Both of them arrived at the entrance of the Gryffindor common room, as they provided the password to the Fat Lady. She let them through as they headed up the dormitory stairs to change. Charlie stowed away his broom and made sure that it was safe. He suddenly felt the Weasley House magic becoming active and strong. He immediately found Percy climbing the stairs to find him.

"Perce, did you feel that?" asked Charlie.

"Yes. What does that mean?" asked Perce.

"It means our new friends have taken formal oaths to get us back in the game. We better start dusting off the Grimoire, and the other things. The Weasleys are back in the game thanks to our aeroplane specialists."


Bill Weasley who was doing a new arithmantic calculation for a new ward, felt the Weasley house magic stir as he suddenly became silent. In his presence, were Timilf and the senior Goblin Wardmistress.

"Timilf, I think house Weasley just joined the Peverell Alliance. I can feel it. I will speak to my folks at home tomorrow."

"Ah – that pleases me. He is generous with his opportunities. There will be much coin that will follow your family. We are waiting on the kitchen to start supplying us with lunch. Your mother is a talented cook."

"Yes, I was always lucky with regard to that" Bill joked.

"Indeed. Anyway, this problem requires three solutions different that will work at the same time. We have never solved this, nor has anybody in the arithmantic community." the senior Goblin Wardmistress replied.

"Hermione showed me some of her work recently. She is good at mundane mathematics. Let her have a look, I think she might be able to use muggle methods to crack this." replied Bill.

"We are using some of her looping and algorithm runes. She sent us some well-explained examples on paper. By Gobblydook, we need Lady Granger and Lord Peverell lecturing us." replied the Wardmistress.

"Harry's improvements for the high carbon steel and the recently developed forcefield-forge allow us to melt titanium and gold to produce an amazing alloy. We have the hardest armour and blades. Our weapons are selling for a premium with the other enclaves! You should have seen the carnage this morning. We all took turns observing the bodies. He fights like a dragon. A man even lost his head on the other side of a wall. Galleon-sized holes through the bodies. Not even Goblins are that violent." replied Timilf.

"I know. But after speaking to him and seeing how he suffered, he is what we need. We all lost people to Voldemort. No tolerance for him and his Death Eaters. If Harry calls me to fight or he wants a guy to break wards, as long as Gringotts isn't busy with me, I am going!" Bill replied.